‘No’ on Impeachment Unites Today's GOP. In the 1950s, a Renegade Dared to Break Ranks – Mini Lesson

Historically, polarization and partisanship have characterized American politics, overshadowing cooperation and bipartisanship. Many Americans correctly assume that elected officials tend to strictly adhere to party lines when casting their votes. Examining historical and contemporary examples of partisanship can help students understand the political landscape in the United States.

Throughout American history, there have been distinct periods marked by rampant polarization. Probably most recognizable is the buildup to and aftermath of the American Civil War. Another period of intense polarization occurred during the Gilded Age, when the Republican Party dominated and was closely aligned with industry and big business. Additionally, the Solid South was a Democratic voting bloc that remained united throughout the Southern states from the end of Reconstruction until the early 1960s.

More recently, political polarization has taken on various forms, including divisions within political parties. For instance, there are divisions among Republicans on individual party leaders and how to approach global issues. An example is the divide between Republicans who support former President Trump in his re-election bid, and their party colleagues who oppose another Trump presidency. Similarly, within the Democratic Party, polarization exists over issues like climate change and tax policy.

The prevalence of partisanship and political polarization may raise questions among students about the resilience of the American political system and the efficacy of a two-party system. These questions can lead to broader discussions about the strengths and weaknesses of the current political landscape and the potential need for reforms. It can also encourage them to critically analyze the impact of political divisions on the nation and to consider alternative approaches to fostering cooperation and bipartisanship in the future.